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Entry Level Chemical Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

CHEMICAL OPERATOR I

Clearwater, FL · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Description ENTRY LEVEL ROLE On the job training SALARY: 17-18/hr. SHIFT: 3rd Sunday to Thursday 11 ... Chemical Operator position. CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS Must have a valid driver ...

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Entry Level Chemical information

See Florida salary details

$7

$16

$28

How much do entry level chemical jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level chemical in Florida is $16.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $17.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level chemical?

Entry level chemical jobs are positions suited for individuals who have recently graduated with a degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field and have little to no professional experience. These roles often involve supporting senior chemists or engineers in laboratories, production facilities, or research and development teams. Common responsibilities include conducting experiments, analyzing samples, maintaining equipment, and assisting in process optimization. Entry level positions help new professionals gain hands-on industry experience and develop technical skills necessary for career advancement.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an entry level chemical engineer?

As an entry-level chemical engineer, you will typically be involved in assisting with process design, data analysis, and troubleshooting within manufacturing or research environments. Your daily tasks may include running experiments, monitoring production processes, collecting data, and preparing technical reports. You'll often collaborate with senior engineers, technicians, and quality assurance teams to ensure safety and efficiency. This role provides valuable hands-on experience and exposure to industry-standard equipment, laying a strong foundation for future advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level chemical engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Chemical Engineer, you need a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or a related field, along with a solid understanding of chemistry, mathematics, and process engineering principles. Familiarity with industry-standard simulation software such as Aspen Plus or MATLAB, as well as safety and environmental regulations, is highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, effective teamwork, and clear communication help you solve problems and work efficiently within project teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and innovative solutions in chemical manufacturing or process industries.

What is the difference between Entry Level Chemical vs Entry Level Chemical Technician?

AspectEntry Level ChemicalEntry Level Chemical Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require an associate degreeHigh school diploma; often an associate degree or relevant certification
Work EnvironmentLaboratory, manufacturing, or field settingsLaboratory and industrial environments, often hands-on work
Employer & Industry UsageChemical manufacturing, research, quality controlManufacturing plants, laboratories, quality assurance
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in chemistryClarifying responsibilities and qualifications of chemical technician roles

Entry Level Chemical roles typically involve basic chemistry knowledge and may require minimal formal education, focusing on general laboratory or industrial tasks. Entry Level Chemical Technicians often have similar educational backgrounds but may perform more technical, hands-on tasks in labs or manufacturing settings. Both roles serve as foundational positions in the chemical industry, with technicians usually having more specialized training or certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Chemical jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Entry Level Chemical jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Entry Level Chemical job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Chemical job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,362 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Laurel Plant - Chemical Operator

Milliken

Gainesville, FL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Milliken & Company rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 62 rated fashion and textile manufacturers


Job description

Milliken & Company is a global manufacturing leader whose focus on materials science delivers tomorrow's breakthroughs today. From industry-leading molecules to sustainable innovations, Milliken creates products that enhance people's lives and deliver solutions for its customers and communities. Drawing on thousands of patents and a portfolio with applications across the textile, flooring, chemical and healthcare businesses, the company harnesses a shared sense of integrity and excellence to positively impact the world for generations. Discover more about Milliken's curious minds and inspired solutions at Milliken.com and on Facebook, Instagram and  LinkedIn.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

This position is located at the Milliken Chemical Plant located in Gainesville, FL, and reports to a Chemical Supervisor.A Chemical Operator is a key role in the chemical manufacturing processes. Qualified Chemical Operators will be able to work safely as a team in a Chemical Manufacturing Environment, learn chemical processing, and obtain multiple job certifications to progress to top pay. Entry-level associates will be expected to rotate on a 12-hour shift, first-third rotation, and will be expected to learn basic chemical and material handling skills.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Become familiar with all pertinent SOP's and departmental manuals and demonstrate ability to perform chemical operator duties.
  • Develop working knowledge of the setup, operation and cleanup of chemical process equipment; and demonstrate competency in operating assigned vessels in the Pay and Progression path.
  • Become knowledgeable of required paperwork flow, product flow and terminology used in each new production assignment.
  • Learn to properly identify and safely demonstrate how to disassemble, clean, reassemble all process filters utilized in commercial production processes as directed by supervisors.
  • Responsible for process paperwork including SAP, Excel and Label-printing computer system.
  • Maintain assigned work station(s) in a neat and orderly fashion with minimal supervision.
  • Maintain proficiency in proper sampling, weighing and labeling procedures and demonstrate the ability to keep all containers properly identified and labeled at all times.
  • Maintain proficiency in the operation of the following heating and cooling systems, including location of control switches, valves and regulators: City water Tower water Glycol cooling Steam boiler Hot oil heating.
  • Read and understand all written procedures contained in Chemical Process Documents.
  • Demonstrate this ability by completing required procedural batch sheets without error.
  • Demonstrate the ability to work and use time effectively under minimum supervision to accomplish assigned production goals and additional tasks to support safe and clean work environment.
  • Demonstrate proficient and safe drum handling techniques while moving full 55 gallon drums on/off of pallets.
  • Demonstrate proficient and safe cylinder handling techniques while transferring cylinders from one location to another as directed by supervisors.
  • Learn and demonstrate the ability to safely transport and load 25 kg bags of chemicals into various chemical processing equipment by hand.
  • Participate in Process Review Committee meetings to serve as the operator process expert.
  • Demonstrate the ability to work cooperatively with others. Demonstrate the ability to listen to supervisors and follow both verbal and written instructions. Be familiar with and comply with established Milliken Quality Policy.

QUALIFICATIONS - REQUIRED:

  • High School Diploma.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, work under pressure, and meet deadlines.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.Must be able to climb multiple steps, lift 50 pounds on a regular basis, pass medical clearance, and wear a full-face respirator.
  • Computer experience, Windows-based software.


QUALIFICATIONS - PREFERRED:

  • High level of computer skills.
  • Prior experience in a chemical or manufacturing environment.
  • Forklift experience. SAP experience.

The successful candidate will have strengths in the following:

  • Ability to multi-task.
  • Ability to work as a team and independently.
  • Self-direction and ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities.

By combining science with design and insights, Milliken tackles the issues and concerns of today. Every day, our community of innovators is invigorated by the challenge of finding creative ways to enhance people's lives and make the world around us easier, safer, more sustainable and more beautiful.


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